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Handymax-Size Bulkers

4/12/1999

Japanese bulk carrier newbuilding yard Sanoyas Hishino Meisho Corp has secured a series of orders for ultra handymax-size bulk carriers from Greece's Levant Maritime, in an order which could eventually stretch to seven ships. The order is for the construction of three 52,000 dwt bulkers plus options for two further vessels at prices believed to be $18.27m each. The first trio of vessels is scheduled to emerge from Sanoyas' Mizushima Works between the third quarter of next year and stretching to early 2001.Principal particulars of the series include an overall length of 190 m, the limits of the handymax range, and a draught of 12 m at full deadweight. The ships will have the ability to load approximately 41,000 tons at 10 m draught. Propulsion will be derived from a low-speed, super longstroke 2-cycle, Sulzer RTA48T main engine developing 12,000 hp and providing a service speed of 14.5 knots. The ships will be of a single fuel configuration, with both the prime mover and the auxiliary power generators burning the same heavy fuel.In addition to greater deadweight capacity, the new design features wider hatch covers to increase the efficiency of cargo handling operations and an improved propulsion performance over its predecessors.Each of the geared bulk carriers will be fitted with 30 ton cranes serving five holds. Two of these cranes are in Gemini configuration, capable of 60 ton lifts. The cranes will be fitted for grab discharge with 10 cu m capacity grabs. The vessels will be strengthened for the carriage of specialised steel products, such as hot-rolled coils.More information: Lloyds List: (Thursday April 8 1999 No. 57,231 Page 14)